Lesser Pond-sedge
VU

Lesser Pond-sedge

Carex acutiformis

UnknownLCEULCEU

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carex_acutiformis

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Lesser Pond-sedge faces significant pressure from wetland drainage and agricultural conversion, which has eliminated much of its natural habitat across Europe. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development degrades remaining pond and marsh ecosystems where the species persists. Climate change-induced alterations to precipitation patterns and increased drought frequency further threaten the water-dependent habitats this sedge requires for survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

Lesser Pond-sedge inhabits shallow margins of ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers, and marshy areas with nutrient-rich, muddy substrates. It typically grows in water depths of 10-50 cm and requires consistent moisture levels throughout the growing season.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Flat-sedgeVU

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Lesser Pond-sedge classified as Vulnerable?
Lesser Pond-sedge is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Lesser Pond-sedge faces significant pressure from wetland drainage and agricultural conversion, which has eliminated much of its natural habitat across Europe. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development degrades remaining pond and marsh ecosystems where the species persists. Climate change-induced alterations to precipitation patterns and increased drought frequency further threaten the water-dependent habitats this sedge requires for survival.
Where does Lesser Pond-sedge live?
Lesser Pond-sedge occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Lesser Pond-sedge?
The main threats to Lesser Pond-sedge are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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